By Andrew Wychrij

The Bundesliga outfit have completed a deal for the Brazilian defensive midfielder, making him the third player to join the club during the January transfer window

Hannover have completed the signing of 21-year-old defensive midfielder Franca from Brazilian side Coritiba, the club have announced.

The Brazilian youngster joins Johan Djourou and Andre Hoffmann as the club's new signings this winter and has already passed a medical. He has signed for die Roten on a three-and-a-half-year deal, keeping him with the club until 2016, and will join up with his new team-mates on Tuesday.

Speaking to Hannover's official website, director of sport Jorg Schmadtke praised the quality of the club's new acquisition.

"Franca, at 1.90 metres and 88 kilograms, is in good physical condition and he brings with him a great passion for the game," he stated.

"He is a rugged-type of player who will, in my opinion, forge a career with us."

Club coach Mirko Slomka also spoke with optimism on Franca's potential impact in the near future.

"I look forward to working with Franca and I am sure that he is motivated and ambitious and looking to seize his chance," the 45-year-old added.

"I have great experience working with South Americans and I appreciate their commitment and their enthusiasm for learning. I am convinced Franca is no different."

Hannover sit 11th in the Bundesliga with 23 points from 17 games as of Sunday January 13.